Powerhouse forward Daniel Spencer-Tonks joins Hornets

Rochdale Hornets have signed talented Swinton Lions forward Daniel Spencer-Tonks on a deal until the end of the season, with the option of a further year.

Spencer-Tonks, who made a solitary Betfred Super League appearance for Salford Red Devils in 2022, goes straight into contention to face Cornwall this weekend.

The 29-year-old, born in Gloucestershire, first joined the Red Devils' reserve team after impressing on trial. He went on to make his Super League debut against Warrington Wolves towards the end of the 2022 campaign. 

He moved from Salford to Whitehaven the following season, making 18 appearances in total for the Betfred Championship side.

During his time in Cumbria, Spencer-Tonks also enjoyed a brief loan stint at the Hornets, making three substitute appearances and finding himself on the winning side on every occasion. 

He started the 2024 season at another Championship side in Swinton Lions, where he featured eight times and scored three tries. 

Spencer-Tonks also embarked on a short loan move to Hunslet earlier this year, making a further two appearances off the bench.

“Firstly, I just want to say a massive thank you to Andy Mazey and Gary Thornton for sticking to their word and getting this deal done so quickly,” the front-rower said following his move to the Crown Oil Arena. 

“I had a brief loan spell at the club last season which I really enjoyed, and those two were a big factor as to why I wanted to come back. When the opportunity presented itself, I didn’t hesitate.

“I cannot wait to get started, rip in as soon as possible and repay that gratitude on the pitch. I have been keeping an eye on Rochdale since my loan spell, and I believe we have the capability to have a real good go in the play-offs.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton said: "I'm delighted to have Daniel on board for the rest of the season and beyond. He brings real experience that will add value to the changing room.

“Daniel has been with us before and knows what we’re about as a club, so I'm really excited to see him hit the ground running."

Chairman Andy Mazey said: "We are thrilled to have concluded the immediate transfer of Daniel. 

"He made a big impression at our club during a loan spell last year, so having been alerted to the potential of an opportunity to secure his services, we moved quickly to make it happen. 

"Daniel has proved himself to be an explosive and effective Championship middle during his spells with Whitehaven and Swinton. It is therefore a real statement of our intent heading into the second half of 2024 to have got this over the line."

Photo credit: Peter Green